WHY, Ariz. (KGUN) — Why, Arizona is named after the Y-shaped intersection made by State Routes 85 and 86.
And on the edge of Why sits the Rock and Jewelry Shop.
The two employees will know you’re there when you honk your car horn.
Dave Laskiewicz has a short 10-step commute from his house to the shop, and he shows me around inside.
They have treasures of all shapes and sizes from all around the world, but many come from right here in Arizona.
"Basically a lot of Chrysocolla, this is Ajo rock," Laskiewicz said.
He says Arizona is a great place to source materials for his jewelry making because of the state’s abandoned mines and geological features.
Laskiewicz adds he is able to go around old mines to find many of their rocks.
“Arizona has a vast variety of minerals and gems. You name it, it’s here.”
Despite the great collection, Laskiewicz says the Rock Shop often gets passed by.
“We get very few customers, most people are in a big hurry to get to Rocky Point and spend their money," Laskiewicz said.
He says the next time you drive through Why, why not make a quick stop?
“We have a good variety of rocks, we’re good people. Bring some business to Why," Laskiewicz said.
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Adam Klepp is a reporter for KGUN 9. At his previous station in Yuma, Adam focused on a range of local issues including the border, water rights and healthcare. He is originally from Detroit, Michigan, and attended both Loyola University Chicago and Syracuse University. Share your story ideas and important issues with Adam by emailing adam.klepp@kgun9.com or by connecting on Twitter.
